Accessories designer Erin Shaffer schools us on the handbags ladies should invest in

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Erin Shaffer; Photo courtesy of Shaffer LA

We’re constantly on the hunt for “The One” — the perfect handbag, that is. Having the right purse for every type of occasion possible is the lifetime pursuit of many, and sometimes, the latest It Accessory is just not the right fit. (Think: impractical hardware that weighs down your shoulders or over-the-top colours that cross the line to fashion victim territory.)

No one understands the elements of a clean and edited handbag collection quite like Erin Shaffer, the founder of up-and-coming label Shaffer LA. With a career in hospitality branding and high end retail, she channelled an apprenticeship with an elite leather maker into a business of her own. Lauded for its no-frills totes and bucket bags, the brand uses fine leather from an Italian tannery and employs female workers in need at a fair wage.

“The perfect bag should be well-constructed and comes with a story,” said Shaffer, whose designs are all hand-made in downtown Los Angeles. “It should look appropriate for the location, yet you’re not too afraid to beat it up.” We’ve asked Shaffer to round up the essential bag silhouettes and sizes every woman should consider investing in, along with other luxury labels to consider.


A Refined Leather Tote

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“The ideal carryall fits everything from your laptop to gym shoes, while making a stylish statement on your forearm,” says Shaffer. This Miryam bag from Shaffer LA is constructed with sturdy pebbled leather — with reinforced handles — and can hold it all in without losing shape.


 A Refined Leather Tote (Continued)

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With a background in manufacturing luggage trunks, Parisian brand Moreau specialises in polished totes that will stay with you through thick and thin.


A Compact and Handy Pouch

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It’s easy to lose things every time you change up your bag for the day. Having a pouch containing all your essentials will make switching in and out of larger bags so much easier — plus, they can double as clutches for night-time activities. Shaffer suggests choosing bold colours to pair with bigger neutral bags, such as this metallic gold Lorna pouch. 

*The Lorna pouch will be available on shafferla.com in different colours in mid Fall.


 A Compact and Handy Pouch (Continued)

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For a patterned alternative, you really can’t go wrong with a hand-painted Goyard zip pouch.


 A Classic Clutch

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A clutch is the go-to purse for taking your look from day to night. This bright red Julian number goes with black, navy, or brown colours. Shaffer LA’s signature tassel adds a preppy touch to the enclosure.

*An embossed leather version of the Julian wrap clutch will be available in the Fall.


 A Classic Clutch (Continued)

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For a more whimsical look, look no further than the wicker and straw looks from independent brand Kayu. “I adore this brand because these handcrafted clutches provide women in Malaysia, Philippines and Indonesia living wages while preserving their indigenous craft using wood and straw,” says Shaffer.


 A Small Bucket Bag (Continued)

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If you’re the type to run around all day doing errands, you’ll need a portable purse to keep your hands free. Shaffer’s bestseller, the Greta, was first created for Sarah Jessica Parker’s young daughters, but the bucket silhouette has since taken off as a major accessories trend for adults. The expandable design is available in heavy-treated leather in a variety of colours — from sophisticated neutrals to shocking neons.


A Small Bucket Bag (Continued)

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If you’re looking to make a statement, this patchwork creation from Jerome Dreyfuss will surely dazzle.